THE first flight on a new direct route between the Scottish capital and Canada has taken off.

Canadian visitors already generate £83 million a year for the Scottish economy and VisitScotland says the new route will provide a boost to this important market.

Mike Cantlay, Chairman of VisitScotland, said: "Canadians have always had a strong affiliation with our country and we look forward to welcoming many more visitors from across the Atlantic over the summer."